Lycopene is a naturally occurring carotenoid, a type of pigment that gives certain fruits and vegetables their red and pink hues. It is most abundantly found in tomatoes, but also in watermelon, pink grapefruit, and papaya. The health effects of lycopene have been the subject of various studies, with evidence suggesting it may play a role in supporting heart health and potentially reducing the risk of certain types of cancers, particularly prostate cancer. Lycopene is thought to exert its benefi

How many studies on Lycopene are available?

NutriVouch references 271 human studies on Lycopene, all peer-reviewed and indexed on PubMed.

Is Lycopene effective for Antioxidant Protection?

For Antioxidant Protection, Lycopene has an effectiveness score of 6/10 — moderate evidence — works in some populations. Based on 16 relevant studies.

Is Lycopene effective for Heart Health?

For Heart Health, Lycopene has an effectiveness score of 5/10 — moderate evidence — works in some populations. Based on 19 relevant studies.

Is Lycopene effective for Skin Health?

For Skin Health, Lycopene has an effectiveness score of 5/10 — moderate evidence — works in some populations. Based on 10 relevant studies.

Is Lycopene effective for Anti-Inflammation?

For Anti-Inflammation, Lycopene has an effectiveness score of 4/10 — weak or limited clinical evidence. Based on 16 relevant studies.

Is Lycopene effective for Cholesterol Management?

For Cholesterol Management, Lycopene has an effectiveness score of 3/10 — weak or limited clinical evidence. Based on 14 relevant studies.

Confidence level

Moderate evidence

271 studies

Lycopene

Absorption

✦Take with a fat-containing meal for best absorption, as lycopene is fat-soluble. Cooking tomatoes can increase lycopene bioavailability.

Daily Dose

⚖

Common dose: 10–30 mg daily

RDA: No official RDA established

Upper limit: Not established

Best form: Lycopene from tomato extract, Synthetic lycopene

Timing: With a fat-containing meal

Lycopene is better absorbed from processed tomato products than fresh tomatoes. Consult a healthcare provider before starting supplementation, especially if taking other medications.

Effects

🍇 Antioxidant Protection

📉 Cholesterol Management

3.014 studies›

Food Sources

Tomato paste30mg per 100g
Watermelon4.5mg per 100g
Fresh tomatoes3mg per 100g
Pink grapefruit1.1mg per 100g
Guava5.2mg per cup